Life & Work with Marissol Martins of Sol Search Jewelry, Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissol Martins, Jewelry Designer & Metalsmith, Founder of Sol Search Jewelry.

Hi Marissol, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Marissol Martins, a metalsmith artist and jewelry designer with a passion for creating meaningful, handcrafted pieces. I started Sol Search Jewelry as a way to combine my love for nature, my artistic journey, and my passion for teaching, all while making jewelry that celebrates individuality and creativity.

Jewelry-making has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I’d spend my allowance on beads instead of toys, fascinated by the idea of turning simple materials into something beautiful. Years after earning a degree in Business Administration, I discovered my true calling in metalsmithing. That realization set me on a path of constant learning, from taking community college metalsmithing classes to studying goldsmithing in Florence, Italy.

Crystals play a big role in my designs, not just because they’re beautiful, but because I truly believe in their energy and meaning. I always tell people, the crystals choose you. If you’re drawn to a certain stone, it’s for a reason—it holds something you need. My work is also deeply inspired by nature, which comes through in the organic shapes, raw textures, and materials I use, like sterling silver, gold, and gemstones. Every piece is made with intention, reflecting empowerment, adventure, and the stories we carry with us.

Last year, I opened my Sol Search Jewelry storefront at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro. After years of selling at art shows across Orange County and LA, I was ready for a space where I could not only share my work but also teach. Now, I get to help beginners craft their first pieces and collaborate with customers on custom designs, all while building a creative community. My shop is open Friday through Sunday, 11 AM to 6 PM, and has become a place where people can connect with my work, take a class, or just stop by to say hi.

For me, jewelry isn’t just something you wear—it’s personal. It tells a story, marks a moment, and reflects who we are. My goal is to create pieces that speak to you, bring you joy, and celebrate life’s special moments. I’m so grateful to be part of that journey.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting Sol Search Jewelry has been both exciting and challenging. Like most small business owners, I’ve had to figure things out as I go, balancing my passion for making jewelry with the realities of running a business. Designing and creating will always be my favorite part, but I’ve also had to learn marketing, website management, and all the behind-the-scenes work that keeps everything running.

I wear a lot of hats. I’m not just a jewelry designer—I’m also a photographer, social media manager, and customer service rep. Capturing my pieces just right, creating engaging content, and building a brand all take time and creativity, but I love the process.

Art shows helped me get my work out there and connect with customers, but they also came with long hours, endless prep, and unpredictable sales. Opening my store at CRAFTED at the Port of Los Angeles was a huge milestone, but it brought its own learning curve, like setting up the space, curating inventory, and making the leap to a permanent location. Every step has been a mix of excitement, growth, and problem-solving. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Sol Search Jewelry, I don’t just make accessories—I create pieces that tell a story. Whether it’s a spark of inspiration, a cherished memory, or a feeling you want to carry with you, I design with intention, letting meaning and artistry come together naturally. My creative process is all about playing with shapes, textures, and patterns, letting the materials guide me until something special comes to life.

The best part of what I do is seeing my jewelry become part of someone’s story. I love working with customers to design pieces that celebrate milestones, honor memories, or serve as little daily reminders of their strength and individuality. That’s what makes Sol Search Jewelry different—it’s not just about making something pretty. It’s about creating something that means something. A little piece of art that feels like you.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The COVID-19 crisis was a tough time—not just because of the uncertainty in the world, but also because of a personal battle I never saw coming. A car accident left me unable to sit or stand for more than 20 minutes at a time, just as my jewelry business was gaining momentum and I had invested in new studio equipment. It was heartbreaking to feel so limited—my hands itched to create, but my body couldn’t keep up.

The frustration was real, but so was my determination. I threw myself into physical therapy, celebrating even the smallest victories, like sitting at my jeweler’s bench a little longer each day. Slowly but surely, I fought my way back. That experience changed me. It taught me resilience in a whole new way and deepened my appreciation for my craft.

This setback also reshaped how I approach jewelry design. I became more intentional with my process. It also reinforced my love for problem-solving—finding ways to adapt and work smarter, not just harder. More than anything, it reminded me that creativity isn’t just about making something beautiful—it’s about perseverance, adaptation, and turning challenges into something meaningful. Now, every moment at my bench feels like a privilege, and I bring that gratitude into every piece I create.

Pricing:

• Soldering Class: $95 for stamp ring classes
• Soldering Classe: 3 Stackable rings (2 texture & 1 (3mm) gemstone – $150
• One of a kind jewelry pieces starts at $75 & up

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.solsearchjewelry.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solsearchjewelry/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solsearchjewelry
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@solsearchjewelry?lang=en